CLEARWATER, Fla. -- For an idea of how serious Ryan Howard and the Phillies are taking the ESPN report that the team has had internal discussions about proposing a Howard for Albert Pujols trade to St. Louis, we present this scene:

About that rumor

Ryan Howard responded to a report that the Phillies have had internal discussions about trading him to the Cardinals. (David Swanson / Staff Photographer)

Matt Gelb

Posted:
Monday, March 15, 2010, 9:31 AM

CLEARWATER, Fla. -- For an idea of how serious Ryan Howard and the Phillies are taking the ESPN report that the team has had internal discussions about proposing a Howard for Albert Pujols trade to St. Louis, we present this scene:

As Howard discussed the rumor with reporters this morning, Shane Victorino walked through the clubhouse and chanted, "Albert! Albert! Albert!"

Of course, general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. has categorically denied the story. And even if the Phillies had internal discussions about trading a player (I'd imagine this happens occasionally.) it's hard to believe these internal discussions were very serious.

But Howard discussed it this morning.

"I really don't have anything to say about it," Howard said. "Truthfully, I can go back to all the stuff that happened when I was in double-A -- all the talk about trade rumors. I don't know anything about anything. I'm not really focused on it. If that were the case -- I don't know if it is or not -- it is what it is. You just keep going out there and doing your thing. If you get a call saying you're trade, then you're traded. Until that happens, I'm still a Phillie. I'm still here. Let's ride it out."

And that's that.

THE LINEUP

The Phillies are boarding a bus for Bradenton, Fla., where Roy Halladay will make his third Grapefruit League start.